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I LOVE these: https://www.amazon.com/Reusable-Portable-Refillable-Container-Smoothies/dp/B01A0XA5I8
I used them for purées and yogurt when my daughter was younger and I still put smoothies in them now that she is older. There is this littler red insert you put in the top that keeps them from splurting the food everywhere which was a huge improvement from the store bought pouches. They are also dishwasher safe, so the clean up is easy. I can’t recommend them enough!
So my baby is also 8m and one thing I've realized is that in virtually every restaurant we've been to, the high chairs they provide put him WAY too low, like the table is practically at nose level. Of course he makes a huge mess, I can't imagine eating off a plate I could barely see and NOT making a mess. We have a travel high chair and it really helps him be at a better height for the table. We also bring an ezpz mat or bowl, it suctions onto almost anything and we don't have to worry about him throwing the real dishes on the floor.
FYI Gill Rapley has two books, this one is the cookbook. It also has the philosophy but in not as much depth as the original book. 130 recipes, I read it with my first BLW baby and remember enjoying it.
Honestly though, if you love to cook I would focus on what you already love to make. Adapt as necessary. I.e. If you love spaghetti shape your meatballs into finger shapes instead of balls. Pick up some plain Greek yogurt to tone down spice for curry chicken. Sweeten your oatmeal with fresh fruit instead of honey etc
We have a high chair that hooks to the table, so he generally sits next to me or between my husband and I. I have a "restaurant kit" where I keep wipes, a bib, a large flour sack towel, and some prefold diapers for emergency napkins. We do our best to clean up anything that gets dropped, but most of it stays on him or in the chair since the sides are high. A booth also helps with this, as most stuff will fall in the booth instead of the floor. When we finish, I use the wipes to tidy up bebe and the tray and pile any trash/food onto a plate for easy cleanup. Dirty bib, towel and prefolds go into he other pocket of the wet bag to be tossed in the laundry when we get home. I think as long as you are courteous, tip fairly, and aren't obnoxious, most servers will be ok if baby makes some mess. It's inevitable, even without BLW.
We love ours!
Maybe something like this? Have not yet tried it but plan to pick one up before we start our blw journey!
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07ZQB56QB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_F0JDWFJWXV9XHY2PM8B2
Very similar to Stokke but a little less expensive. You use it so often, divide the cost per use and then it suddenly seems a lot more affordable.
I did a mix of blw, spoon-feeding him and him sucking on pouches. We used pouches a lot around 9-12 months bc we were super busy. He’s 18 months now and eats by himself just fine. I still use pouches but rarely. He really likes them and I think of them like a smoothie (and I love smoothies myself!). Transitioning to straw bottles and regular cup was super easy. And his language development seems fine (he can say a few words now).
When he was younger, I got reusable pouches that didn’t have square edges so they’d be easier to clean. I’d boil up peas and squash or whatever veggies, use the hand masher, freeze into small portions. Then warm up a portion and pour into the pouch and maybe add water/breastmilk and oatmeal. Or mash fresh fruit with oatmeal and water. A couple times I forgot to put the lid on and everything came out the other end...oops! You have to wash the pouch right away or it’s hard to clean. Eventually we got too busy and just bought pouches (not cheap!!)
Here are the ones I got:
WeeSprout Double Zipper Reusable Food Pouch - 6 Pack - 5 fl oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TXBSHBQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZV042RHZ9392CRVV8EWX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This! I love our Gootensils. They’re flat ‘spoons’ that catch purées or tiny bits of food. I find it easier than regular spoons for my baby since I can put just a little bit of food on it, and she can ‘clear’ the spoon. It’s great, and the hollow one is, since she doesn’t have to open her mouth too wide to get it in, and the food doesn’t plop off like if baby is holding a regular spoon incorrectly. I find she can’t even open her mouth wide enough to get a fork in, so then hollow spoon works better in that sense as well.
The stage one spoon can also be used as a teether to get the idea that it feels nice to go in the mouth.
Bormioli Rocco Rock Bar Stackable Shot Glasses – Set Of 6 Dishwasher Safe Drinking Glasses For Liquors & Spirits – 2.25oz Durable Tempered Glass https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001C3W1XS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_TD2MDAKA2XZX6BQ0R26C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I use these. Started when my daughter was 6 months. They're tempered so they don't break when she drops them. Now at 12 months, she's drinking out of them with minimal mess. Exposure is everything. I did a lot of hand over hand with her and just when I thought she wasn't getting it, she surprised me by picking up the glass by herself one day. Consistency is key!
Hey, I saw someone recommending putting a more rigid one of those stretchy exercise resistance bands like from physical therapy up the front legs of the Antilop high chair to create a footrest (apparently it's a lot more ergonomic for baby to have a footrest). And also using an old shower curtain as a splat mat for the floor.
I hate the idea of buying a $25 footrest and a $50 Catchy thingy (that's $75 in accessories for a $20 high chair!!!). So just thought I'd pass those ideas along.
This is the type of resistance band they were using as a footrest, but you could prolly find a few for free from ppl who have been to physical therapy or something:
There is a brand called Bamba I believe that is shaped like a cheese puff but its peanut butter. Not sure where your located but amazon has them
I like these by Squeasy Snacker on Amazon. Easy to clean, baby can get almost every last drop, and there’s a piece you can remove for thicker foods. Red 6 oz Squeasy Snacker Spill... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N5M4OPX?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Doesn't leak, isn't hard to get liquid out, can switch out bottle nipple or straw. Nice soft straw. And you can get a weighted straw as well. Totally customizable to your needs. And you can get plastic or stainless steel. Best cup around after much searching and yes I've used munchkin, ezpz, you make it we tried it! This was the best!
Sorry I meant to link this one
I thought she was saying that she wasn’t able to find any bamboo plates that had suction on the bottom so that’s why I linked one
Yes, they are ice cube trays and a bit flimsy I would say, but worked well in oven on baking sheet Link: Ice Tube Making Trays, Perfect Ice Cube Sticks Molds for Small Mouth Sport Water Bottles, Bottled Soda, IHUIXINHE Silicone Ice Stick Tray Set of 4 packs, 40 ice sticks (Classic color) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074JXFJY5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9MG6CYN7KXW1KZHAVSGY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just got this and it works really well!
We also have this one and it seems to stick pretty well, but my 19mo old Hulk can still get it off.
I want the Avanchy sets so bad, but I just can't justify spending that much. 😩
This thing is an absolute monster:
https://www.amazon.com/OXO-Tot-Stick-Stay-Plate/dp/B07G4SF5VL
When prepping food I have to leave it on a hot pad so it doesn't stick to the counter and require just about all my upper body strength to remove it. So far the baby has never once managed to remove it from the high chair or kitchen table.
I've been seeing a lot of these lately with great reviews! (I just searched for silicone popsicle molds, so don't know if these in particular are good. But then you have an idea what they look like)
We use these: Homelux Theory Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags Silicone Bags Reusable Bags Silicone Silicone Storage Bags Silicone Food Bags Reusable Silicone Food Bag (2 Large + 2 Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C2JJNZL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7GM90V9RAW9N4Y5Y447M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Love them.
I got this cheap little novelty cup from our grocery store because you can pour through the straw really easily (it was also 2.50 and way cheaper than the Honeybear). I would help put the straw in my daughter's mouth and when it was in the center of her mouth (when she stopped biting it with her back gums) and her lips were closed around it, I would tilt the cup a bit and pour a little water in. We did this for maybe two days, 6-8 times total. Then the third day she picked up the Munchkin weighted straw cup and successfully took a long drink.
These are great for a first open cup if you want to try them.
I've never used one before, but for $10, this might work.
Baby Spoons Forks Set Toddler Cutlery Sets, Silicone Food Grade Baby Cutlery, BPA Free, Easy Grip (Green) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08R76H894/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_HKFWGWQQ67WR4R07XVGN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We got these, I have no means of comparison but I think they’re great! We found we were moving away from purées or foods like porridge, cottage pie etc because we wanted to encourage self feeding so I’d highly recommend giving them a go if you find you’re thinking the same way
We like the oxo brand of plates. The suction is pretty strong. https://www.amazon.com/OXO-Tot-Stick-Stay-Plate/dp/B07G4K2NMR/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=oxo+plates+for+toddlers&qid=1610989066&sprefix=oxo+plate&sr=8-4
I have been cooking and freezing my way through this book. The Baby-Led Weaning Cookbook: Delicious Recipes That Will Help Your Baby Learn to Eat Solid Foods―and That the Whole Family Will Enjoy https://www.amazon.com/dp/161519049X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_iSs2FbMYEN8D3. Just made cod fish sticks and froze some last night. Basically make sure no bones, cut into fingers, dip in egg, roll in cornmeal/flour mixture and fry in butter or oil on at least two sides. SOO many of these recipes are freezable and the book is designed to make 2 adult, 1 baby portions. I just add salt to my individual food. Also, low sodium canned green beans. Frozen strawberries. Things like that for a quick side. I also roast sweet potato fries and freeze in big batches.
I think something like this will work well for you. Summer Pop ‘n Sit SE Booster Chair, Sweet Life Edition, Aqua Sugar Color – Booster Seat for Indoor/Outdoor Use – Fast, Easy and Compact Fold https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PLVFGBB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1Z.xFbA0XAEGP
It looks like a good, solid chair. How easy is it to /can you remove the tray? Would it help if it got refinished or painted?
We used this until he outgrew it: Inglesina Fast Table Chair - Award-Winning Convenient Baby High Chair - Use at Most Tables or Restaurants Without Leaving Scratches {Black} https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IOGIM9S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Z0nlFbNSRNE3E
By that time, he could sit in a chair without straps and we got a stokke tripp trap.
I really wish someone would combine the busy mat with one of these.
This is our favorite: Food Catching Baby Placemat, Kids... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092H5796Q?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share We have like 4 different ones from Amazon, this one is the king. Some of the others are flimsy or too large.
I recently bought a small microwave steamer basket it is a life saver. It makes it so easy to steam some veggies if what we’re eating isn’t baby appropriate. I bought this one off Amazon Small Steamer Basket
There are also little pacifier things that allow you to fill them up with fruit. We would give that to our LO when we would go to the park. He would sit on our lap and happily gnaw away at some blueberries
We have the clickk chair. The Oxo Stick and Stay bowl works pretty well. The oxo plate is too big :/
I just ordered this wet/dry vacuum, and am so excited lol. I’m getting it tomorrow. I’m not sure how it works yet obviously, but I can let you know. I liked that you don’t have to bother with replacing pads with this model.
We have this one https://www.amazon.com/Primo-Deluxe-Convertible-Folding-Toddler/dp/B07J5MGZ3J and we’re very happy with it. It’s super easy to clean, folds up nicely, has a foot rest and removable tray.
Seconding this, it’s so easy to clean since it’s all plastic. I also got different straps off Amazon that open with the click of a button incase of choking.
Ugh, I feel your pain. My babe hasn’t had a bottle during the day in months. But she’s finally starting to be okay and around my family, so they could start babysitting again (they only had a few times when she was like 3 months old and a few months ago, and it didn’t go well). She refused the bottle for my mom a few days ago, and won’t take one from my husband or I during the day either (she always gets one bottle at night, so I thought it would be fine).
We’re going to try this feeding thing. It’s unusual enough that it might work. Maybe adding a small bit of purée would work to make it more like food, but I’m not sure if that’s advised (though I don’t think there would be much harm in it since your baby is older now).
We also tried giving her some milk in an open cup, and she’d take some. It’s not ideal since it’s messy, but it’s better than nothing. We’re going to try these things properly tomorrow when we get that spoon thing delivered, fingers crossed it works.
I ordered these baby poncho things off Amazon. They are kind of like what you wear when you get your hair cut except your arms go through them. I usually put a cloth bib on under the long sleeve bib because food always gets under the collar. It’s the best solution I’ve found so far!
Long Sleeve Baby Bib, Attaches to... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FJ7RTZF?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Traditional is watery purees to thicker and eventually chunky purées and then bite sized pieces. Essentially, you replace big pieces that baby gnaws on with purées, and then they line up with BLW with bite size pieces. I used this recipe book from Kindle unlimited to get an idea of the stages. We never finished it, because I ended up being way more comfortable with BLW than I expected by 6 months, but it gave clear guidelines and plans for when baby would be ready for the next stage, and it definitely helped me feel more comfortable just having an idea of what to expect.
This travel high chair seat is one of the best baby items I’ve spent. It attaches to a chair at any house, plus we take it to restaurants so we don’t have to use their high chairs, and it also can sit on the ground for picnics. Packs in a bag and is perfect for travel. Much easier to set up than the ingelsina too.
We started out with the Inglesina fast table chair. I loved it when we did purees, but once we started BLW, it had to be washed in the washer daily. No, thanks. I wanted the IKEA chair but it was impossible to find in-stock and I couldn't keep playing the "will it or won't it be in stock" game checking every day. We ended up getting the Stokke Tripp Trapp on sale for a little over $100 off, and have no regrets. That thing is expensive, but worth every penny. It wipes clean, looks nice in our dining room, and is super adjustable. I rolled my eyes at the hype before we got it but I honestly can't imagine any other chair for our son. It is just so nice. Some things are worth splurging on for me (stroller, high chair) and I buy pretty much everything else (clothes, shoes, toys) at thrift stores, so for us the cost pretty much balances out.
We also use these bibs (below) that go over the tray (like we put the whole thing over the tray so even the tray stays mostly clean), and put a towel underneath the chair during meals so we can shake it out afterward instead of having to clean the floor after every meal. I saw another redditor mention that recently and it's been a massive game-changer!
I cut the valve tip off this straw cup You can squeeze the very bottom part of this cup to squeeze water up through the straw into their mouths to demonstrate that there's water in there. After showing him twice, he picked it up and drinks out of it great. We take it every time we leave the house since it's so hot out.
Does he use teething sticks like these? It helps them push back their gag reflex.
Have you had him screened by a good lactation consultant for oral ties? If it persists I might look into that
I had the same problem, and was recommended the bubbaboo plate here in this sub. I bought the plate and bowl and they work great! Very strong suction, and my girl hasn’t flipped one over yet.
I like them so much I got rid of all the other failed suction dishes!
Bubbaboo Bamboo Plate and Spoon... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088339RM6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
We use these Nuby Cups since I needed a spill-proof option for daycare. They’re relatively easy to clean so we do milk and water in these.
Are these the stainless steel straw cups you’re referring to? I’m in Canada and I know things are generally a bit cheaper in the states but does this price seem normal? $40 for a single cup seems crazy to me!
We've been happy with this one. It does come with a valve at the top of the straw but I just snipped it off with scissors and it's perfect now
These Gootensils are great (I found the uk Amazon link, but it’s sold in the US too for anyone else reading this)! When baby is young and can’t pick up small bits of food, you can put some food on the hollow ‘spoon’ to give baby to self feed. Like small bits of chicken or eggs. I gave my baby an omelet today, and it’s very messy, so I could give her some of the crumbs in the stage two hollow ‘spoon’. It’s also good for oatmeal. The stage one spoon is good for yogurt and purées.
My baby is six months old yet, but have you tried homemade popsicles? this mold set. My baby can hold it no problem. I put puréed strawberries with breastmilk in it, but if you want something more substantial in it, you could mix puréed fruit with full fat yogurt to put in it. I’ve offered it twice to my baby, and she licked it a few times, but she wasn’t really into it.
I think she was really put off by the coldness, though I think running some warm water on it would be enough to make the coldness of it less overwhelming. Cold things are great for teething.
We use it on the floor because we’re overcautious and there is no strap.
My FIL has this one which can be strapped. https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Quick-Clean-Go-Portable-Booster/dp/B00B9ZRZTY/ref=pd_aw_ic_dpcp_m_1_m_1?pd_rd_w=Cs6rh&content-id=amzn1.sym.bd0fdf53-c22e-4ccf-9db7-c2aba5cf5188&pf_rd_p=bd0fdf53-c22e-4ccf-9db7-c2aba5cf5188&pf_rd_r=H0...
Are you going to the friend’s house?
Egg cups/ pancakes/ waffles are non-messy. Dragon fruit is a good non-messy fruit.
We use this chair for our 10 month old: Summer Pop ‘N Sit Portable... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AZC36Z8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I got a splat mat from Amazon (this one). It is waterproof on the one side and then grippy on the bottom for underneath the highchair. It saves alot of time for clean up at meals because when we're finished , you just pick up the mat and dump into the garbage.
Oh interesting - I always see people complaining about it and just assumed it was the lack of suction!
This munchkin plate fits perfectly though (I’m in Canada where I assume ikea dimensions are the same? But in case the link doesn’t work, it’s called Munchkin Stay Put Suction plate!)
I use a little mail brush to work in Shout spray. Let sit for a few minutes or even a couple of hours and then wash like normal. You have to be careful you don’t wear out the fabric but this seems to work well on most of my daughters food or poop stained clothes.
For the pouches try these: ChooMee SoftSip Food Pouch Tops |... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VHHEQA0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
They work great at preventing the squeeze explosion.
I don't know what your travel looks like but you could try cutting fruit/veggies at the time of eating. Grapes, apples, cucumbers, and peppers seem to be the least messy for us. Dipping in hummus might be more filling but slightly messier unless you control the dipping and quantity.
Depending on your child and personal preferences, early in the trip you could do cold chicken strips. I don't know how cold you have to keep hard boiled eggs but that's another option in the freezer pack. Where I live we have shelf stable hardboiled eggs (maybe you have that there too).
I didn't see stainless steel on your list, but if you want to consider - I bought this one and it works really well:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078PT65X9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I like that you can take off the suction ring if wanted, as it then transitions to a regular bowl when LO is older. The suction works really well (we use the Antilop high chair - sometimes with the tray and sometimes on our wood table - it suctions well to both). Also, the option of using the silicone lid on top is nice for easily putting away leftovers.
I'm not sure if I'll be flagged for posting a link, but I got these ones. When my son was first starting on solids, he was of course nuts about those rice puffs. So I bought the cookie cutters to make different foods look like the puffs. He's 3.5 now and still gets pumped when I surprise him with a fun shape, though usually I let him pick the shape
We buy these! They are awesome, in fact I eat them myself at snack time rice cakes
Maybe wipeable apron style? The pockets look pretty low profile, like they lay flat and won't get in the way
Bibado bib, silicone 4 suction plates - I tried others and kept going back to these because they were the most reliable suction, munchkin weighted straw cups, these kind of spoons.
As a non-essential but was super helpful for us was a food log. I used a day planner and wrote what she had for B/L/D to keep track of allergens, possible reasons for being sick, and to see what she liked best and could repeat for #2. It helped so much when she got a BAD diaper rash and we couldn’t figure out why. Her poop became acidic due to having the tomatoes she liked 3 days in a row! Looking back on what she ate helped a lot. Plus I can use it to keep track of other stuff like a baby book.
We use and really enjoy the Keelaroo high chair. Keekaroo Height Right High Chair with Tray, Natural https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044R7I00/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WBE0NTVQ9H8T9896E2CC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’ve been using this for stains! It’s gotten multiple old berry stains out. Haven’t tried this with turmeric but I would think it’ll be able to get it out!
Hate Stains Co. Stain Remover for Clothes - Non-Toxic Laundry Stain Remover Spray for Baby & Kids - Messy Eater Spot Cleaner for Clothing, Fabric, Carpet (120ml, 4 oz Spray Bottles, 2 Pack) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07QTD8JCF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1MDJ1STX67Y28M6YWHMG
This is the wrong cushion for this chair. The cushion you have goes to another Stokke chair. It should look more like this
ChooMee SoftSip Food Pouch Tops | 4 Colors + White case | Prevent Spills and Protect Childs Mouth https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00VHHEQA0/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_7K7BJPH1X5CYGT7DZ24K?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
My child also refused to be spoon fed after trying BLW. These toppers allowed for some control over those puree pouches (store bought or homemade). You can some more complex "meals" in that way.
https://www.foxandbriar.com/sweet-potato-kale-and-black-bean-patties-for-babies-and-toddlers/
This recipe also has a variety of nutrient foods in one small package that the child can self feed. The comments have was to alter the recipe too.
Also I recommend getting a small baby spoon that is easy to hold for your child and start the self spooning training. I preload the spoon of oatmeal (old fashioned oats with baby oatmeal added in to thicken it and increase iron) and help baby hold it to guide into mouth. You can try first with it almost empty or with a thick nut butter so the food doesn't fall off. My child likes to turn the spoon upside down in their mouth to use the bottom teeth to scrape it off. If yours does the same, make sure the spoon food is thicker and stays on. There are several posts here with recommendations on how to do that.
Also make sure you are still offering a lot of formula or breastmilk. That'll will make sure your child is getting all the nutrients. If you are still worried, contact your pediatrician to ask about a multivitamin for your baby (or you if your breastfeeding) to decrease your anxiety.
We got these snack holder things that can hold pretty much anything. Yogurt melts, dried fruit, real fruit, crackers, a mixture.
BraveJusticeKidsCo | Snack Attack Snack Cup | Collapsible Silicone Snack Container | Toddler and Baby Snack Catcher Lid (Mint Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V4TD62H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CVZZJ0WHH1QG22X5A3MW
Sure do! [Here's the link.](novaferrum pediatric drops liquid iron supplement for infants and toddlers 4 fl oz (120 ml) – chocolate https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07GXYPMH2/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_VX1D2ZMVT27PVCRBSA91?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)
We (1yo) have the Pura Kiki 11oz/325ml Stainless Steel Straw Bottle w/ Sleeve, 100% Plastic-Free, MadeSafe Certified, 100% Medical-Grade Silicone Straw for Kids, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Babies & Infant – Green https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B019JBA4G0/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_YSQ0T5GZS3W3C3SV8TNA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
To me this was the best thing I bought when we decided on BLW. The Baby-Led Weaning Cookbook: 130 Easy, Nutritious Recipes That Will Help Your Baby Learn to Eat (and Love!) a Variety of Solid Foods―and That the Whole Family Will Enjoy https://www.amazon.com/dp/1615190309/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_97FC1G1H9X8TQY57H5NK. Portions are 2 adult and 1 baby. Lots of things froze well and I still make a lot of the recipes now that she is 2. The risotto recipes are my favorite. It also has a lot of good general info on BLW in the first half.
At just shy at 14 months, she finally learned it. But we had to have a breakthrough with a regular straw cup first. This one wasn’t cheap but it’s really easy to use and was our dinner table go to after she mastered the open cup.
Silicone Toddler Cups with Straw, Straw Cup for Baby, Silicone Baby Cup 6 Months+, 5 oz (New-Gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096XSTL61/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_K5DPPNQJ6PNWBJPKMS5V?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Silicone Toddler Cups with Straw (brand is Catii)
These are me and my daughter’s two favorite cups, one with and one without straw. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0942LQNFZ/ref=cm\_sw\_em\_r\_mt\_dp\_VC7GWC545NXK3C1KZKRJ?\_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 this one the lid slides over the soft straw. Not hard to get water out of.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WVTNC14/ref=cm\_sw\_em\_r\_mt\_dp\_800K7Q7581QSP4D5DZEJ Great rim training cup!!
I got the Honey Bear straw cup, and it’s been amazing. It’s a feeding and speech therapy cup, so it felt like overkill… but I also thought that would make it very very likely to work out. It has!
We really like these
Tommee Tippee Superstar Straw Insulated Sippy Cup for Toddlers, (9oz, 12+ Months, 2 Count), Pink and Warm Gray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KP31H8J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JGKM0QC04J8NF8NVAVTW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We had these but after numerous drops, they started to leak a bit…Tommee Tippee Insulated Toddler Straw Sippy Cup Tumbler | 12+ Months, Pink & Purple – 2 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08QKVZKPF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_37QKTA17D68TGE3YJJXP
If you are talking about this kind, my kid could use it under 1 but he did chew through the straw part eventually so I had to replace the cup (cannot just buy a new straw unfortunately). I really like that it is truly spill proof and my kid figured out the open/close button pretty quick too. We have the stainless steel version and it was worth it to replace it.
We've been using this Munchkin Simple Clean Straw Cup https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KM9H7J7?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share for the past few months (started around 9mo) . Soft straw, pretty leak proof, small.
Something like this was recommended in my BLW group: High Chair Baby Foot Rest compatible with IKEA Antilop Highchair - Adjustable Wide Support from Natural Wood for Toddler - Easy to Clean Footrest Accessories &Firm Clamp - no Slip down on Legs (white) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09S3ZPMJH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_V94DQVXV5RQ1A24KHMWT
Red 6 oz Squeasy Snacker Spill Proof Silicone Reusable Food Pouch - for Both Soft Foods and Liquids - Water, Apple Sauce, Yogurt, Smoothies, Baby Food - Dishwasher Safe https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N5M4OPX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_58JW7PSZ52C7BE8J1YB7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
When mine was able to climb in and out independently, I took off the baby seat front so that he wouldn’t get tripped up in it. It felt much safer to me! I used a strap from [Amazon](www.amazon.com/dp/B07VC7BRMP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_9BSXJP4CAHPSJK3JH4F6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) to keep him in the seat.
So that is closer to a true teething biscuit. Think almost like a biscotti. Now I don't think you need to go this route.
My twins went to a feeding specialist for their tongue ties and she had us start on "hard munchables" basically stick shaped food that was too hard to chew on but that helped them with the chewing function. So things like a raw carrot, raw celery for example. Baby puts the carrot in their mouth and instinctively puts it on the side of their mouth where their molars would be and then gnaws on it. This is basically teaching them to "chew" but they can't bite anything off yet, maybe a little chunk here and there but I would just fish it out of their mouth if they got a big enough chunk. This also helps the baby "desensitize" those gums so when they get solid food it won't be as sensitive to chew. I thought this was a bit weird but honestly my twins have ZERO problems chewing and had very little gagging once we introduced solid food. They have no texture issues and try anything I put in front of them so I think there might be something to these "hard munchables". We also introduced a lot of stick shaped teething toys that I think were also SUPER helpful. if you're interested I can send you the full list of foods our therapist gave us!
Kinda like these maybe?
HEINZ FARLEY'S Rusks - Original 150G x 6 https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06XR7VGTH/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_CBCK7AMSJ63CP59EN75S
I hate that they call them rusks but its like a big cracker biscuit that dissolves. You can also turn them into cereal.
I grabbed these from my store but I’ve been eyeing these
Sandwich Cutter Set Fruit Cutters Bread Cutout Shapes for Kids Lunch Butterfly Dinosaur Unicorn Mousehead Food Shaped Cookie Cutters 13 Pack for Baking and Food Tools Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XKRNLG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_ZE5M7JMW74PY9ENNRKKP?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I came across with a BLW set recently that has very strong suction power, and it still sticks pretty well so far. It's called yooforea BLW set if you're interested in trying out. I got it from Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Yooforea-Silicone-Training-Toddlers-Dishwasher/dp/B096DBSCZL?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1.
Can’t really advise how to stop feeling ‘gross’ but I did find cleaning clothes/Highchair multiple times a day very tedious.
I bought those giant ufo shaped that have a Velcro attached bib with full length sleeve. So when it comes to clean up, I wipe the baby’s face/hand with wash cloth the best I can, slip the bib / ufo filled with food mess off the Highchair.
I take it to the bathroom and shake most of mess into the bathtub, Pick up the large pieces before hosing the whole thing down with a strainer at the plug to catch any small bits of food so it doesn’t clog up the Bathroom pipes.
Example of UFO dish / bib: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Tidy-All-One-Unisex-Months/dp/B07BS5Q8QW
SpoonfulONE Food Allergen Introduction Mix-Ins | Smart Feeding for an Infant or Baby 4+ Months | Certified Organic (28 Packets) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081HWJ3NW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_VV98XFFM6M2PX2XBKQRD
GRABEASE All Over Bib for babies and toddlers, BLW Bibs Covers baby and high chair, Place food on plate outline design Make self Feeding a Breeze for Parent and Child, Teal https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z28YNFV/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_6VVST5FR7YGYH8Z2BW0V
Lol
We got some of these smocks
Tiny Twinkle Mess-Proof Full... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09N45SSYG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
And mostly only have to wipe hand and face, remove smock, hands and face again. Then I plop kiddo into the pack and play, wipe down the chair and everything, then take the tray to the sink and wash it, the bib, and the wet cloth.
They drip dry pretty quickly and come in a 2 pack, so we're big fans.
(I also sometimes try and do one less-messy meal a day just to be nice to myself)
I like Baby Led Feeding a lot. My kids have liked everything that I’ve made so far (2 year old included!) Happy Healthy Eaters also has some really good recipes.
As another mom who pumped, worked and made my BLW daughter’s daycare food. Freeze food ahead in batches. Make chili once and freeze into a bunch of portions. I use these trays to freeze one ounce portions then put them into freezer gallon bags. Milkies Milk Trays, Breastmilk Freezer Tray Organizer, Freeze and Store Your Milk and Baby Food in 1 Ounce Sticks, Includes 2 Reusable Storage Container Trays, No BPA-Phthalates-Dyes, Silicone-Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00553XPMM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_T47YCQMH9CR2C7MCPWGW. Or freeze sweet potato fries or egg cups, the possibilities are endless. Frozen bags of berries are good too. You could cook once a month and have tons of portions ready.
Get a splat mat!!! Out of ALL the baby things I own, this is hands down the best most useful one. I just shake it out in the yard between every meal. Quick cycle in the washing machine once a week. I can’t stop asking my parents hope they survived without one.
we bought this one
BABYBOET Splat Mat for Baby - Under High Chair Floor Mat Protects Wood, Vinyl and Carpet from Spills - Waterproof Triple Layer Baby Mat with Anti-Skid https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083TZKBF6/ref=cm_sw_r_apanp_uxTwHiEuR2uwj
I have been using these for months now and they’re great!
PandaEar Long Sleeve Bib 3-Pack| Smock Pocket Crumb Catcher Apron | 12-48 Months https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TPZ4PXV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_VTXKY06X0BNANQGGAE4P?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
With anything that has waterproof lining it’s important to hang dry and not use the dryer. Not sure what bumkins recommends or how you’ve laundered but just something to be cautious of.
I know this post is a year old, but in case this helps someone out there…I finally found the best ones! These fit and stick really well to the tray:
WeeSprout Suction Plates with Lids for Babies & Toddlers - 100% Silicone, Plates Stay Put with Suction Feature, Divided Design, Microwave, Dishwasher & Oven Friendly, 3 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LXVW7TC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_X0NPFDR1JX6405GB7J9J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I read this one. baby led weaning
These Avanchy bowls and plates are AMAZING! They stick so well, even to slightly porous surfaces, like my old ass wood table. They are pricy, can't go in the dishwasher or microwave, but I love them and think they are totally worth every penny.
The beaubaby bamboo ones are the only ones I've found that actually suction and can't be pulled off. They're bamboo so they stain but it's worth it to me to not have a whole plate of food dumped on the floor.
Bumpkin plates. I've tried a couple others but these are the absolute best. They are sturdy, not flimsy so you can carry it with a full plate of food and it won't flop over, full silicone so dishwasher and microwave safe, and just one big plate sized suction cup on the bottom that does not lift up (as long as there aren't crumbs underneath).
These dr browns bowls stick well, are top rack dishwasher safe, and were ~$6 for a 2 pack. Hopefully they will come back in stock because I want more!
Dr. Brown’s No-Slip Suction Bowl, 2-Pack https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08GGF8NVG/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_MBJ4AKMFWK96VWFQCCD7
Nuk 7 Piece Feeding Set https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07F77RC3Z/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_VCT1ED6PEWQMMPAEYS14
I can't find the individual bowls, but these are so much better than the Munchkin bowls! They have multiple suction cups which means more than one successful attempt is needed to fling the bowl! I have the plates too. They are shallow, but he's never managed to get it completely unstuck!